The beauty of Sarasota will get your attention on your first visit. If you see Sarasota first from the window of an airplane, the colors of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, contrasting with the brilliant white sand of Longboat, Lido, and Siesta beaches, will make you anxious to see more. A rainbow of colors comes from the tall condominiums shining in the sun, the warm tile on the roof and patio of the mansion built by circus magnate John Ringling, the various green hues from the lush jungle-like vegetation, the flowers that are blooming any month of the year, and the lavender seashell-design Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Sarasota is a tropical paradise on the Gulf of Mexico that offers abundant natural beauty, cultural tradition, and plenty of sunshine. Sarasota offers residents a superb quality of life leading to CNN/Money Magazine choosing Sarasota as America's Best Small City and one of the nation's top eight Best Places to Retire.

Sarasota's clean air, sparkling beaches and sunny climate have made us world famous as a center for the good life. Our vibrant recreational and cultural scene offers activities for every taste and budget. Sarasota offers big city amenities with a small town way of living